REVIEW: Hot Toys Summer Convention Exclusive CAPTAIN AMERICA (Rescue Uniform Version)

[JeffSaylor]

The Essence of "The First Avenger" in 1:6 Figure Form...

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With the summer over, it’s probably safe to say that this has been the year of Marvel’s Avengers and Hot Toys’ is covering a full slate of 1/6th scale figures from that latest blockbuster. But Hot Toys has also been busy producing toys and collectibles from the previous “Avengers” films as well! One of those masterpieces is from “Captain America: The First Avenger”: Captain America – Rescue Uniform version, exclusive only at San Diego Comic-Con at the Sideshow Collectibles booth.

This piece is actually still available through Sideshow for $219.99, which is a rather hefty cost for a figure without swappable portraits or extra costumes, but if you ignore the price, this is one of the finer Captain America figures ever produced and more limited in quantity. The other Captain America figures do sport the familiar superhero costume but the Rescue Uniform version is actually more attractive to me and since he does spend much of the film in this costume, it makes it even more display worthy and a nice contrast to the usual red, white, and blues.

The box for Captain America is attractive indeed with vintage style art of the captain, weathered for the nostalgic look. The inner box slides out from the side and reveals the now standard method of separating the figure out from the accessories. My box did receive some wear and tear during shipping but if you order from Sideshow, they should be able to provide replacements.

The sculpt of this particular Chris Evans as Steve Rogers as Captain America is probably the best they’ve produced so far. Without a mask to get in the way, they’ve really nailed the likeness. Additionally, it is a far better expression than the upcoming Avengers Captain America release. The one drawback, I suppose is that this particular sculpt looks perfect wearing the helmets. Without the headgear, his head will look a little on the flat side.

Paint only really applies to the face, which is done by hand, and the A on his helmet. All of which is very clean and what can I say? It looks great.

The Truetype body was used for Captain America and features at least 30 points of articulation, allowing you to pose your figure in a variety of ways. It will mostly be on display on your shelf standing relatively still, however, it is always great to have the options.

The Rescue Uniform is incredible with many details throughout, making for a very authentic figure. The leather-like jacket itself is not made to be removed but the blue Captain America tour shirt is visible underneath. In addition to the jacket and shirt, Captain America comes with quite a bit of gear: suspenders and pouches, pants, leggings, shoes, goggles, and helmet. Do be careful with the boots as there is a pants strap tied around it. Having the strap undone would be quite a headache to put it back as it was.

The suspenders, pouches, holster, knife… all of these things need to be tied on or attached by yourself. Instructions are included but there’s some guess work involved as it’s not entirely clear. Looking at Sideshow’s photo gallery does help a bit.

Also included with the Captain is his earlier shield, pistol, rifle, along with four hands total to swap out for various functions. One pair of fists, one left hand for holding the shield and one right hand for holding his rifle or pistol. And with all Hot Toys figures, a display stand is included featuring the title of the film and name of the character.

If you’re on the fence, I’d say just bite the bullet and pick this up. It’s got a more G.I.Joe style look but it really does look amazing. To me, it captures the essence of Captain America: The First Avenger perfectly and Hot Toys scores another winner with this release.

Review and Photography by David Yeh

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